The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government strongly objects to the notice published today (August 11) on the United States (US) Federal Register by the Customs and Border Protection in relation to origin marking of Hong Kong products.
A Government spokesman said, "The new rule on origin marking of Hong Kong products originates from the US President's Executive Order issued on July 14 and reflects that the US ignores Hong Kong's status as a separate member of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The rule may not be consistent with WTO rules, and it will also not help protect consumers' interest. In fact, it will only cause confusion and affect the interests of all parties, including the US."
"The special status as a separate customs territory enjoyed by the HKSAR under 'One Country, Two Systems' is conferred by the Constitution of the PRC and the Basic Law. It is recognised by multilateral organisations such as the WTO, and is not granted or revocable by an individual country," the spokesman said.
According to the notice, the new rule will be implemented after 45 days. The HKSAR Government is clarifying certain important implementation details with the US authorities through the Economic and Trade Office in Washington in order to decide on the way forward. The HKSAR Government will maintain liaison with and provide clarification to the trade. The HKSAR Government will also carefully consider if the US' measures contravene WTO rules, and does not rule out the possibility of taking action under WTO rules if necessary to protect Hong Kong's interests.
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